HAZARD IDENTIFICATION AND RISK ASSESSMENT RISK HAZARD SOURCE HAZARD CATEGORY HAZARD SIGNIFICANCE Struck by falling debris or trees (Forest environment) Trees with excessive deadwood, loose limbs ‘hangers’ and leaning trees Env (Y) -­‐ Mod High winds Env (Y) -­‐ Mod Clients/staff becoming wet and cold Moderate/heavy rain and low temperatures (Extreme weather Conditions) Env (N) -­‐ Low Lightening strike (electrocution) (Extreme weather conditions) Env (Y) -­‐ Low RISK PREVENTION & MANAGEMENT * Weather conditions which increase likelihood of risk monitored closely onsite, park operation suspended if conditions deteriorate and reassessed before recommencing activities, park closed if conditions are deemed unsafe by duty manager * Daily inspection of all trees supporting activities and those adjacent or overhanging activities and pathways, identify ‘hangers’ *Periodic assessment and monitoring of forestry within boundary. Ongoing pruning schedule, identify trees with significant deadwood, perform limb removal * Annual tree health assessment and report by experienced professional (Arborvista) * Trees identified as potentially hazardous are removed * Weather forecasts and reports checked before each day, ‘high alert’ when extreme weather conditions are forecast, strong to gale force N to E wind direction * Weather conditions which increase likelihood of risk monitored closely onsite, park operation suspended if conditions deteriorate and reassessed before recommencing activities, park closed if deemed unsafe by duty manager * Daily inspection of all trees supporting courses and those overhanging activities and pathways, identify ‘hangers’ *Periodic assessment and monitoring of forestry block. Ongoing pruning schedule, identify trees with significant deadwood, perform limb removal * Annual tree health assessment and report by experienced professional * Weather forecasts and reports checked before each day, ‘high alert’ when extreme weather conditions are forecast * Weather conditions which increase likelihood of risk monitored closely onsite, park operation suspended if conditions deteriorate and reassessed before recommencing activities, park closed if deemed unsafe by duty manager * Evacuation plan in place if conditions deteriorate rapidly and without warning * Clients advised to dress appropriately for the forecasted weather conditions * Park staff have access to Gortex rain jackets and dress appropriately * Weather forecasts and reports checked before each day, ‘high alert’ when extreme weather conditions are forecast Tree Adventures Hazard Identification and Risk Management Version 2.1 (last review 17/10/13) 1 Lightening strike continued (electrocution) Thunder/lightening storms Falling to ground Structural defect/system failure Equip (Y) -­‐ High Incorrect use of safety equipment People (Y) -­‐ Low * Weather conditions which increase likelihood of risk monitored closely onsite, park operation suspended if conditions deteriorate and reassessed before recommencing activities, park closed if deemed unsafe by duty manager * Duty manager places staff on high alert when a thunderclap is heard or lightening flash observed. Activities suspended until 30mins after last strike * Evacuation plan in place if conditions deteriorate rapidly and without warning * Daily inspection of all course structures, activities and safety systems. Any concerns reported to duty manager who decides necessary action * Periodic assessment and monitoring of courses. Inspection reports recorded and maintenance plan created. Ongoing maintenance schedule, identify and replace worn materials, improve course design and ergonomics * All retrievable activities where severe shock loading of the lifeline cables is possible are ‘backed-­‐up’ (supported by an additional cable above) * Annual independent audit of course structures and safety systems * (Vandalism) Course access outside of operational hours is restricted by ensuring all access ladders are raised and locked, reducing likelihood of vandalism * Clients acknowledge the requirement to follow all safety rules by reading and signing disclaimer form(s) * Clients read ‘conditions of park entry’ and ‘park safety rules’ information board before commencing safety briefing, golden rules clearly listed * Clients participate in safety briefing where correct equipment use and safety system use is demonstrated on a practise course and all safety rules reinforced * Clients are required to complete practise course under observation of park staff. Clients must demonstrate mastery of equipment use and safety system use before they are allowed to access the higher courses. Park staff may request client to repeat practise course if unsatisfied with individuals performance * Clients under 16yrs of age are required to have ‘active’ adult (18yrs+) supervision while undertaking activities * Clic-­‐it carabiners (client safety equipment) eliminate the potential for accidental disconnection from the safety system under normal operational conditions. Magnetic sensor in Clic-­‐it eliminates potential for clients to mistakenly clip to non metallic anchor (i.e. rope, tree branch) * Patrolling park staff proactively monitor clients while undertaking activities and identify anyone attempting/using their safety equipment incorrectly and reinforce the correct procedure * Patrolling park staff capable of removing clients from the activities if they are not satisfied with a clients knowledge of safety equipment use and/or safety system use. Clients who deliberately misuse safety equipment will be removed/denied access to activities * Supporting course signage reminds clients of correct procedure and provides additional instructions where necessary * Near-­‐miss record kept documenting unforeseen situations where equipment use is Tree Adventures Hazard Identification and Risk Management Version 2.1 (last review 17/10/13) 2 Falling to ground (continued) Incorrect use of safety equipment Safety equipment failure People (Y) -­‐ Low involved. If a trend or concern is observed, equipment suitability is reviewed Equip (Y) -­‐ High Client clips to a free cable end at height becoming disconnected from safety system People (Y) -­‐ Mod Unauthorised access/vandalism People (N) -­‐ Low * Clients secured to safety system by two points of attachment when undertaking activities * Client safety equipment is visually inspected by competent park staff before and after each use * The condition of client safety equipment is closely monitored. Periodic inspections of all PPE (personal protective equipment) allow park staff to identify early signs of wear so item can be replaced before concerns arise. An accurate record of each item is kept to track the items history and when the next inspection date is due. * PPE which fails an inspection or requires adjustment/replacement parts is placed in a clearly marked offline area to ensure equipment is not issued to clients until remedial work has been carried out * All PPE is specially designed and suited to forest adventure park use. * Clic-­‐it carabiners are tested after each use to ensure parts are functioning correctly. During periodic PPE inspections, each Clic-­‐it unit receives a thorough function test to ensure the items performance is satisfactory. Park managers authorized to perform maintenance on Clic-­‐it units, adjust/replace components as required * ALF fall arrest units regularly lubricated and inspected for signs of defect/damage. Park staff perform function test before a unit is placed online for daily operation. Units requiring closer inspection are removed and duty manager alerted. Inspection record kept outlining each units history and indicating when next inspection is due. * Rope register kept to record condition and history of all ropes used for course access, fall arresting, client rescue, maintenance * PPE used in accordance with manufacturer guidelines and life expectancy. All technical notices are read and placed in a file before new equipment is placed online * Maximum weight for participation is 120kgs, if a participants weight exceeds this limit or they are unable to fit the equipment correctly they will be unable to participate for their own safety * Near-­‐miss record kept documenting unforeseen situations where equipment use is involved. If a trend or concern is observed, equipment suitability is reviewed * Free cable ends located near cable termination secured with tape and UV stabilized cable tie * Daily inspection of all lifeline cables allowing park staff to identify when tape/cable tie securing cable end is becoming worn * Periodic course maintenance to ensure all cable ends are secured * Patrolling park staff can identify anyone attempting to mistakenly clip to a free cable end and advise duty manager to ensure cable end is secured promptly * Clients are issued with coloured wristband to indicate which courses they are authorised to access (height, age & ability). Staff are encouraged to monitor client wristbands before they commence climbing * Patrolling park staff can identify anyone attempting to access the courses without the Tree Adventures Hazard Identification and Risk Management Version 2.1 (last review 17/10/13) 3 Falling to ground (continued) Unauthorised access/vandalism People (N) -­‐ Low Client accesses course when below minimum height requirement (not suited to age, height & ability) People (N) -­‐ Low Risk of slipping from harness (client inversion while suspended in harness) Fatigue and prolonged suspension in harness People Equip (Y) -­‐ Mod Minor injuries (sprain, scrape, bruise) Slippery surface on platform Equip (N) -­‐ Low Slippery surface on activity Equip (N) -­‐ Low Loss of balance on activity People (N) -­‐ Low required equipment/training * Clients attempting to ‘play’ on the practise course without wearing safety equipment are removed and advised of risk * (Vandalism) Course access outside of operational hours is restricted by ensuring all access ladders are raised and locked, reducing likelihood of vandalism * Security company monitors the park outside of opening hours, police called if unauthorised vehicles or persons found on site. Company Director also notified * Children measured at check-­‐in to ensure they meet minimum height requirement of preferred adventure option * Clients are issued with coloured wristband to indicate which courses they are authorised to access (height, age & ability). Staff are encouraged to monitor client wristbands before they commence climbing * Course start signs clearly outline minimum height requirement and lists relevant adventure options. Clients can reference their coloured wristband which includes the adventure option and courses they have chosen (authorised to access). * Patrolling park staff can identify anyone attempting to access a course outside of their chosen adventure option. If park staff notice this once a client has already accessed the course they are instructed to return to the ground and supervised while descending * Clients under 16yrs of age are required to have ‘active’ adult (18yrs+) supervision while undertaking activities * Patrolling park staff monitor participant fatigue levels and recommend ‘short cuts’ for climbers displaying signs of fatigue * Patrolling park staff monitor participants undertaking activities and alert rescue staff when a participant becomes stuck in a suspended position * Rescue staff trained in timely evacuation techniques, anchor chain fitted to return client to upright position * Clients who weigh in excess of 100kgs are assessed so additional safety equipment can be fitted if necessary. Chest straps reduce likelihood of slipping from harness if inversion occurs * Clients are required to wear suitable footwear to cover and protect feet * Park staff advise clients to take extra care in wet conditions (safety briefing) * Slippery/worn surfaces are removed or replaced * Clients wear a helmet while undertaking activities (impact protection) * Surf board activities have grip tape to provide textured surface in wet conditions * Clients are required to wear suitable footwear to protect feet * Park staff advise clients to take extra care in wet conditions (safety briefing) * Slippery/worn surfaces are removed or replaced * Clients wear a helmet while undertaking activities (impact protection) * Safety systems prevents falling to ground * Activity provides lifeline cable or rope to assist with maintaining balance Tree Adventures Hazard Identification and Risk Management Version 2.1 (last review 17/10/13) 4 Minor injuries continued (sprain, scrape, bruise) Loss of balance on activity People (N) -­‐ Low Pulley running over fingers People (N) -­‐ Low Equip (N) -­‐ Low People (Y) -­‐ Low People (Y) -­‐ Low People (Y) -­‐ Low People (Y) -­‐ Low Course structures and activities posing an obstacle to participants Major injuries (impact, Collision with whiplash, broken bones, stopper/tree while etc) using pulley Collision with another client while using pulley Collision with spectator while using pulley Landing awkwardly on flying fox * Ergonomics of safety systems and activities safe guard against high fall factor * Park staff provide clients with additional instructions on suitable techniques to maintain control and complete activity * Platform edges where clients arrive with speed are padded to reduce impact injury * Park staff advise clients to take extra care in wet conditions (patrolling/supervising) * Clients wear a helmet while undertaking activities (impact protection) * Correct use of pulley explained and demonstrated during safety briefing, emphasis placed on avoiding holding the cable in front of the pulley * Patrolling park staff monitor participants reminding them of correct technique * Clients wear a helmet while undertaking activities (impact protection) * Patrolling park staff monitor participants advising suitable technique to complete activities and navigate courses correctly * Cable grips on retrievable activities covered by padding * Clients receive instruction and demonstration on correct pulley use with emphasis on avoiding jumping/swinging when leaving platform * Flying fox landing zones provide sufficient distance to decelerate before reaching the tree. A padded stopper prevents client from traveling beyond safe landing zone * Flying foxes where the landing is a platform are heavily padded to absorb any impact, front of the platform has a ramp to assist with slowing down and landing * Flying foxes where the landing is a platform have been designed with a slope not exceeding 7% which reduces likelihood of heavy impact with padding * Clients wear a helmet while undertaking activities (impact protection) * Clients receive instruction and demonstration on correct pulley use, with emphasis on avoiding collisions (safety briefing) * Patrolling park staff proactively monitor participants while using a pulley and flying foxes, intervene when necessary * Clients wear a helmet while undertaking activities (impact protection) * Clients receive instruction and demonstration on correct pulley use, with emphasis on avoiding collisions (safety briefing) * Patrolling park staff proactively monitor participants while using a pulley and flying foxes, intervene when necessary to ensure landing areas are kept clear * Flying fox corridors are fenced off to define the unsafe zone * Clients wear a helmet while undertaking activities (impact protection) * Clients read ‘condition of park entry’ information board, warning against participation with pre-­‐existing injuries * Landing zones are wide and full of soft sand, covering any tree roots * Landing zones are maintained on a weekly basis, ensuring tree roots remain covered and compacted sand areas are softened * Correct flying fox landing technique is explained and demonstrated to participants during safety briefing * Landing zone design and ergonomics are reviewed periodically to discuss potential Tree Adventures Hazard Identification and Risk Management Version 2.1 (last review 17/10/13) 5 Major injuries continued (impact, whiplash, broken bones, etc) Landing awkwardly on flying fox Exposure to high fall factor People (Y) -­‐ Low improvements, accident register reviewed to determine trends People (Y) -­‐ Mod Rope burn Activity ropes and assistance ropes People (N) -­‐ Low Suspension trauma (harness hang syndrome) Pulley jammed on cable leaving user suspended (incorrect alignment by user) People (Y) -­‐ Mod Absent pulley (client attempts zipline without pulley in use) People (N) -­‐ Mod Hair becoming entangled in pulley People (N) -­‐ Mod Client becomes fatigued while undertaking activity People (N) -­‐ Mod Activity retrieval cord gets Equip (N) -­‐ Mod * Vertical fall arrest system reduces fall distance to acceptable level * Course design and ergonomics ensures all lifelines are positioned at suitable height above platform/activity * Correct use of all safety systems outlined during safety briefing * Participants who endanger their personal safety by deliberately not following safety rules are removed/restricted access to courses * Patrolling park staff monitor participants reminding them of correct technique * Clients advised on suitable technique to assist climbers when vertical fall arrestors (ALF) in use * Due to the physical nature of the activities involving vertical ropes and assistance ropes an inherent risk of rope burn exists * Clients receive instruction and demonstration on correct pulley use (safety briefing) * Patrolling park staff monitor participants reminding them of correct technique * Rescue staff trained in methods of assistance and evacuation techniques * Client harness removed and placed offline after rescue to ensure pulley can be inspected for any damage before being returned to circulation * Clients receive instruction and demonstration on flying fox/zip line use (safety briefing) * Supporting course signage displays correct technique at the start of every flying fox/zip line activity * Patrolling park staff monitor participants reminding them of correct technique * Rescue staff trained in timely methods of assistance and evacuation techniques * Conditions of park entry clearly displayed at reception entry, outlining requirement for long hair to be tied back * Park staff advise clients with long hair to tie it up before safety equipment fitting takes place * Tree Adventures supply hair ties to clients free of charge * Rescue staff trained in timely methods of assistance and evacuation techniques * Clients advised to take short breaks and consume fluids/snacks at check-­‐in * Clients are advised to alert park staff when they require assistance or encounter someone having difficulty in the park * Course difficulty rating and advanced/expert activities clearly indicated with signage * Patrolling park staff monitor participant fatigue levels and recommend ‘short cuts’ for climbers showing signs of fatigue. Short cuts provided to bypass certain activities * Patrolling park staff monitor participants undertaking activities and alert rescue staff when a participant becomes stuck in a suspended position * Rescue staff trained in timely methods of assistance and evacuation techniques * Condition of retrieval cord checked during daily course check, worn cord reported to duty manager for replacement Tree Adventures Hazard Identification and Risk Management Version 2.1 (last review 17/10/13) 6 Suspension trauma continued (harness hang syndrome) stuck/breaks during use Falling or injury during rescue/evacuation Rescue equipment failure Equip (Y) -­‐ Low Staff performing task without sufficient training/competency People (Y) -­‐ High Client disturbed by another client/visitor Negligent behavior People (N) -­‐ Mod Client or supervisor has impaired judgment Intoxication People (N) -­‐ Mod * Clients are advised to alert park staff when they require assistance or encounter someone having difficulty in the park * Patrolling park staff monitor activities with a retrievable lifeline during park operation, stuck cord can be easily remedied * Patrolling park staff monitor participants undertaking activities and alert rescue staff when a participant requires assistance * Rescue staff trained in timely methods of assistance and evacuation techniques * Equipment selected for rescue applications specifically designed for such purpose * Clients who weigh in excess of 120kgs are denied access to courses, ensuring equipment is not exposed to overloading * Rescue equipment inspected and logged periodically to record history of each item * All online rescue equipment is in good working condition * Rescue equipment showing signs of defect placed offline * Rescue equipment used in accordance with manufacturer guidelines and life expectancy * Trainee staff receive induction to training process, outlining responsibilities and roles for each staff level (level 1, 2 & 3) * Only park staff who have completed level 2 or 3 training are authorised to rescue/evacuate clients * Park staff who attain level 2 or 3 are monitored by experienced staff during initial assistance/evacuation scenarios with clients * Only park staff who maintain a satisfactory level of competency are authorised to rescue/evacuate clients * Drugs and alcohol policy ensures park staff are in suitable state of mind to perform roles * Clients read and agree to disclaimer requirements, agreeing to respect other participants and park staff * Conditions of park entry clearly displayed at reception entry, outlining consequences of unsuitable behavior * Participants under 16yrs are required to have ‘active’ adult (18yrs+) supervision while undertaking activities * Park staff monitor all park visitors and remind those demonstrating unsuitable behavior of consequences * Park staff can remove or restrict access to courses when clients ignore warnings and repeatedly demonstrate unsuitable behavior * Conditions of park entry clearly displayed at reception entry, outlining intoxicated persons will be denied access to park, zero tolerance * Clients and supervisors come face to face with park staff at check-­‐in, allowing intoxication assessment to take place * Clients and supervisors read and agree to disclaimer requirements, declaring they are not under the influence of drugs or alcohol * Patrolling park staff monitor participant well being closely to determine those who Tree Adventures Hazard Identification and Risk Management Version 2.1 (last review 17/10/13) 7 Fire Forest fire Env (Y) -­‐ Mod Tripping or stumbling Uneven ground surface/fallen debris People (N) -­‐ Low Struck by falling object Clients on courses with unsecured items People (N) -­‐ Low Park staff performing maintenance while park operational People (Y) -­‐ Low Struck by activity counterweight Counterweights reaching ground level from courses Equip (N) -­‐ Low Drowning Stagnant water Env (Y) -­‐ Low Biological risks Safety equipment soiled/contaminated Equip (N) -­‐ Low Insect bites and stings Vegetation (cutty grass, thorned bushes and low lying branches) Septic waste discharge Env (N) -­‐ Low Env (N) -­‐ Low Equip (N) -­‐ Low are/or have become intoxicated while undertaking the activities * Forestry management continually assess the fire danger and alert all commercial operators when high/extreme levels are reached * Smoking is prohibited in the Woodhill forest * No smoking signs displayed throughout carpark and reception areas * Clients are advised on evacuation protocol during safety briefing * Evacuation procedure in place * Exit pathways clearly marked with signage, for easy identification in emergency * Fire extinguishers held on site, serviced annually * Pathways clearly defined and maintained with mulch/wood chippings * Debris cleared from pathways regularly * Patrolling park staff encourage clients to walk not run when moving between courses * Conditions of park entry clearly displayed at reception entry, advising clients to remove all personal items from pockets before commencing activities * Clients asked to place all personal items back in their vehicle once check-­‐in complete, Tree Adventures provides safe storage for car keys * Patrolling park staff ensure spectators avoid standing directly below the activities * Clients are advised when maintenance is in progress * Maintenance staff adhere to a ‘no drop’ policy when handling materials and equipment at height * Warning signs and/or roped off areas are displayed during periods of maintenance work, advising clients to keep clear of danger area * All counterweights are covered with padding * Condition of counterweights checked regularly * Counterweights move directly up and down the trunk of the tree well away from marked pathways * Areas prone to water build up clearly fenced off * Clients under 16yrs required to be under supervision of adult (18yrs+) * Procedure for resetting safety equipment includes identifying soiled harnesses, sniff test * Soiled harnesses placed offline and washed according to manufacturer guidelines * Client helmets sprayed with ‘Pure Air’ after each use, controlling bacteria and removing odors * Daily course check removes spider webs and allows park staff to identify nests * First aid supplies held onsite * Pathways clearly defined to avoid contact with hazardous vegetation * Flying fox corridors are cleared of hazardous vegetation * Low lying branches posing any risk are pruned/removed * First aid supplies held onsite to treat minor cuts and protect against infection * Toilets (port-­‐a-­‐loos) provided on site * Toilets are cleaned daily and cleared of waste weekly Tree Adventures Hazard Identification and Risk Management Version 2.1 (last review 17/10/13) 8 Struck by moving vehicle On site car park People (Y) -­‐ Low Fire Ignition BBQ’s Equip (N) -­‐ Low Fuels/oils Equip (N) -­‐ Low Maintenance storage area People (N) -­‐ Low Contact with hazardous materials * Hand washing facilities provided on site * Warning sign at car park entrance advising drivers of children in the area * Warning sign advises drivers of 5kmp/hr speed limit enforced in car park area * Fences around car park perimeter * LPG bottles kept in good working condition * During periods of extreme fire danger the use of BBQ’s is forbidden * Fire extinguishers held on site, serviced annually * Fuels/oils stored in maintenance area, fenced off and identified with warning signage * Fuels/oils stored in suitable containers, stored out of direct sunlight * Fire extinguishers held on site, serviced annually * Maintenance area fully fenced off and warning signage in place at every entry point * Gates leading to maintenance area closed and locked when park operational * Power tools and equipment stored in specially designated maintenance container Key Hazard Category: Env (environment) Equip (equipment) People Hazard Significance: Is the hazard an actual or Yes (Y) or No (N) potential cause of serious harm? What is the likelihood the hazard could cause: -­‐ Serious harm (High) -­‐ Harm, severity dependant on exposure (Mod) -­‐ Harm does not usually occur/not easily detectable (Low) Tree Adventures Hazard Identification and Risk Management Version 2.1 (last review 17/10/13) 9